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Who wore number 20 in NFL
Jersey numbers serve as more than just identifiers in the legendary history of the National Football League (NFL); they also represent the accomplishments and legacy of the players that wear them. The illustrious list of athletes who have worn number 20 among them is particularly impressive when it comes to positions that qualify for awards. With incredible catches, plays that changed the course of games, and contributions that defined seasons and careers alike, players who have etched their names into the annals of football history have worn this number on their backs. We examine not just a number but also a representation of brilliance in the NFL as we delve into the stories of people who have worn the number 20. The number 20 has served as a symbol of skill and adaptability for players ranging from explosive running backs to deft cornerbacks, demonstrating the strategic depth of American football. By showcasing the careers of notable players who have had a big influence while wearing this historic jersey number, this article seeks to appreciate the heritage of the number 20.
Teams who retired number 20
This number is unique because one team retired it in honor of three players who consecutively wore it and were considered the greatest players. The team is Detroit Lions and the players are Lem Barney (1967-1977), Barry Sanders (1980-1984) and Billy Sims (1990-1998). Barney and Sanders are members of Pro Football Hall of Fame. Besides, the New England Patriots removed number 20 from circuit in memory of Gino Capeletti who spent 10 seasons there from 1960 to 1970. Philadelphia Eagles retired number 20 after Brian Dawkins ended the career.
The first number 20 in NFL history
The Pro-reference.com names Paddy Driscoll as the first owner of number 20 in the league history. He wore it for a single game defending colours of Decatur Staleys. He spent the rest of the 1920 season with the Chicago Cardinals. He wore number 1 there. Driscoll spent the career in Chicago teams returning to Staleys (Bears) and retiring from football in 1929.
The last player who wore the number 20 before AV implementation
Here we mention another Chicago team – the Cardinals, as Woodley Lewis wore number 20 there. He played there from 1954 to 1959 after relocating from the Rams. Interestingly, he wore number 30 during his rookie season in the Rams in 1952 and then converted to 20. The same situation happened in the Cardinals when he got number 47 in his debut season. His final season was 1960 in Dallas Cowboys.
Top 5 players with highest AV
Barry Sanders – 149 AV
The running back Barry Sanders was a part of the Detroit Lions during his entire career. He pretended for prestigious awards like Offensive Player of the Year every year. And he won sometimes. In 1989 he won the title of the best offensive rookie, he became the OPoY in 1995 and 1997, and MVP in 1997. Sanders had a rare combination of rushing and receiving talents. That perspective led him to the Pro Bowl regularly. 10 Pro Bowls and six All-Pros was why he was included in the Hall of Fame.
Quizzes. Biographies of athletes
Ronde Barber – 148 AV
Ronde Barber has spent 16 seasons in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was part of the 2002 squad that won Super Bowl XXXVII, led by quarterback Brad Johnson. The cornerback Barber was effective in the interceptions. When he caught the ball, he gained 5 to 12 yards per attempt for his team. 8 of them converted into touchdowns. The player also scored four pick sixs after recovering the fumbles. He also participated in 5 Pro Bowls and 3 All-Pros. Finally, the league inducted him into the Hall of Fame as part of class 2023. Tampa Bay Buccaneers awarded him the Ring of Honor, but his number is still in the circuit.
Brian Dawkins – 142 AV
After the Draft, the defensive back Brian Dawkins joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 1996. He was good in interceptions and tackles. One fumble recovery in 2001 ended with a touchdown. Dawkins had the reputation of the ball-hawking safety, so he earned the nickname Weapon X like the Wolverine in Marvel. Despite his team’s failure to reach the Conference championship during his career, his relentless aggression and blocking capabilities were the strong defensive brick in 9 NFC Pro Bowls. Besides, the player was chosen to be on the symbolic team All-Pro 1. His achievements have been honoured in the Hall of Fame since 2018. Eagles retired his number from the circuit.
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Mel Renfro – 133 AV
The performer started his professional career in 1964 when the Dallas Cowboys chose him in the second round of the Draft. Mel Renfro was a perfect running back at the college, but the coach of the Dallas team decided to start him as safety. It was optimal, so the player mainly had defensive roles. First, he was a free safety and then acted as a cornerback. According to statistical portals, Mel didn’t tackle opponents but regularly caused the interceptions. He scored three touchdowns on interceptions, including one in his rookie season. Renfro played in all Probowls until 1973. His career includes two SBs in 1970 and 1977. The last title was nominal, as he didn’t start any game in the playoffs.
Ed Reed – 122 AV
Ed Reed spent most of his career in the Baltimore Ravens. They chose him in the first round of the 2002 Draft. The defensive back played in Pro Bowls 9 times and 5 times in All-Pro team. Reed pretended for the DPoY award thrice and won only once in 2004. The player was a part of the squad that competed in the Super Bowl in 2008 and 2012. Reed won the Super Bowl XLVII in 2012. He was included in the HOF 2000s best team. The peak of honor happened in 2019 when he got his place in the Hall of Fame.